It has been a busy few months for students and teachers from the O’Connor Catholic College in Armidale who have been busy preparing for their production of Annie.
Based upon the Harold Gray comic strip Little Orphan Annie, Annie the musical premiered in the 1920s before becoming a major Broadway production in 1977.
After its debut on Broadway, the musical had a very successful run for almost six years.
Over the years there have been numerous reenactments of the production with O’Connor student Harry Lye eager to play his part as the Armidale-based school adopts their own take on the musical.
Mr Lye has taken on the role of the 32nd President of the United States, President Roosevelt.
“The best part is meeting new people and just being able to express yourself in different ways,” he said.
In the play, President Roosevelt is a close friend of Annie’s adopted father, Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks who is the billionaire businessman that opens his heart to the little orphan.
In addition to his acting, Mr Lye was also keen to take on some other roles in the musical production including singing.
“Throughout the show I am also in the ensemble and different singing choruses,” Mr Lye said.
“It is fun to see what it’s like from different sides [of the production process].
“Acting as well as singing and dancing.
“It’s challenging although it’s great fun and very rewarding.”
The O’Connor school production will be joined by five members of an affiliate class.
These experienced actors and actresses have returned to share their expertise with younger students.
